Dr. Sohaib Manzoor and Dr. Imran Aziz, accomplished researchers from the Department of Electrical Engineering at Mirpur University, have emerged as winners of the prestigious Rs. 10 million Pakistan Innovation Fund Award 2023. Their groundbreaking tech startup proposal impressed the evaluation committee, earning them recognition and financial support.
In line with the Vision 2025 and under the guidance of the Prime Minister of Pakistan, the Ministry of Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives introduced the Pakistan Innovation Fund. This initiative encouraged citizens, as well as public and private organizations, to submit innovative project proposals. The goal was to foster the development of new products, services, and value additions in existing products, with a focus on enhancing productivity in sectors such as Governance, Agriculture, Education, Health, Tech Startups, and Women Entrepreneurship.
After a meticulous review process, the written proposals from all across Pakistan were shortlisted in the first phase. Subsequently, a committee consisting of senior government officials, including Minister of Planning and Development, His Excellency Engr. Ahsan Iqbal, industry leaders, and experts, evaluated the proposal ideas and made recommendations for the awards.
Among the successful proposals was one submitted by Dr. Sohaib Manzoor, a Lecturer at the Department of Electrical Engineering and Manager of Innovation and Commercialization in ORIC, along with Dr. Imran Aziz, also a Lecturer in the same department. Their proposal focused on Tech Startups for Wireless Communication. Dr. Sohaib Manzoor had the opportunity to present a pitch to the Pakistan Innovation Fund Team, and his compelling presentation convinced them of the potential of their project, the “Smart Programmable Access Point.” This innovation promises to contribute to the country’s IT hardware export industry. Minister for Planning and Development, Engr. Ahsan Iqbal, expressed his congratulations to Dr. Sohaib Manzoor, recognizing his achievement in winning the pitch.
Acknowledging the significant accomplishment, the Vice Chancellor of Mirpur University of Science and Technology (MUST), Brig (R) Prof. Dr. Muhammad Younus Javed, SI(M), commended the dedication and efforts of these young scientists. He urged them to continue their work with the same passion, emphasizing the importance of upholding the reputation of MUST, Mirpur AJ&K, and contributing to the economic growth of Pakistan.
The success of Dr. Sohaib Manzoor and Dr. Imran Aziz in securing the Rs. 10 million Pakistan Innovation Fund Award 2023 for their Tech Startup project at Mirpur University reflects their commitment to innovation and excellence. Their outstanding achievement not only benefits their institution but also holds promise for the advancement of the tech industry in Pakistan.
